10 Major Causes of Truck Accidents in Florida

When driving near 18-wheelers and large trucks on the highways, one needs to be extra cautious in changing lanes when trucks approach from the rear.

Paul Knopf Bigger’ Florida truck accident lawyer, understands how serious and catastrophic truck crashes are, with some causing the most severe injuries and fatalities.

Truck accidents and injuries happen on every road and highway in the USA. These accidents stem from different circumstances, which could impact the truck drivers, their passengers, and every vehicle around them.

Because commercial trucks are larger and heavier, they pose a potentially greater risk and damage.

10 Causes of Truck Accidents

Knowing the factors that lead to truck accidents can help you stay safe while on the road, traveling on highways, or even driving around town.

Here are the common causes of truck accidents:

1. Speeding

Heavy commercial trucks moving at high speeds are more difficult to control and take longer to stop. Some drivers exceed speed limits as they are under time pressure to deliver their cargo on time.  While huge trucking companies install speed trackers on their vehicles, not all trucks use this technology.

2. Distracted driving

This is a dangerous and reckless action for truck drivers due to the size of their vehicles. Distractions like talking with passengers, eating, using the phone or GPS, or reaching something are hazards for any driver. Even a momentary lapse in focus can lead to thousands of dollars in property damage and multiple fatalities.

3. Driver fatigue

Driver fatigue is the most rampant factor in truck crashes because of their demanding schedules. Since some drive for longer periods than they are legally permitted to, fatigue can wear them out. Even if there are mandates that protect drivers, these are sometimes ignored.

4. Aggressive driving

Truck drivers are prone to road rage, tailgating, or recklessly switching lanes. They could be under stress to complete their deliveries on time. Even if they are trained professionals, some even try to wreck other vehicles when they feel aggravated or fail to yield the right of way.

5. Driving under the influence (DUI)

Substance abuse, like the use of drugs or alcohol, is considered a serious crime. When a truck driver is under the influence of a substance, it can impact his judgment and control. This creates extreme consequences for everyone on the road. The truck driver can face criminal charges and commercial license loss, and the truck company can be sued for damages.

6. Poor truck maintenance

Truck drivers are helpless in the face of engine and brake failures, tire blowouts, steering wheel issues, or light and safety failures. Trucks, like every vehicle, need regular maintenance. When poorly or improperly maintained, this can lead to various mechanical failures and accidents.

7. Blind spots

Blind spots are “no-zone” areas of commercial trucks wherein the driver has limited or zero visibility. Even using the side and rearview mirrors, the driver cannot see any other smaller vehicles, bicyclists, pedestrians, or obstacles in the area.

Typically, these blind spots are:

• Directly behind the truck’s trailer
• Immediately in front of the cab
• Along the sides near the driver and passenger doors

8. Improper cargo loading

There are instances wherein the truck driver isn’t always directly responsible for truck accidents. For instance, third-party suppliers may overload the truck or improperly strap down their cargo. This can lead to rollovers or load slipping, which can be hazardous as it can cause drivers to swerve and lose stability.

9. Inclement weather condition

Severe weather conditions reduce the truck driver’s visibility and make it challenging to stop, maneuver, and control their vehicles. For instance, heavy rain, snow, fog, ice, or strong winds make the road surfaces slippery and even put the truck at risk of being blown over.

10. Road conditions

Truck drivers who encounter adverse weather conditions or tricky road construction are at risk of accidents. This includes snow, fog, potholes, landslides, loose gravel, lack of proper signage, and dangerous curves. As these conditions reduce visibility and make the road slippery, drivers may maneuver around – which can cause them to flip or collide with another vehicle.

Getting Legal Help after a Truck Accident

If you’ve been injured or a loved one has suffered damages due to a commercial truck, contact a reputable law firm. Speaking with an experienced truck accident attorney is crucial to knowing your rights and understanding if you’re eligible for compensation.